New Jersey eliminates basic skills test requirement for teachers to address shortages

New Jersey teachers will no longer need to pass a basic reading, writing, and mathematics test to qualify for public school positions, following the enactment of a new law. Act 1669, signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy in June 2024, officially went into effect on January 1, 2025.

The legislation aims to address the state’s growing teacher shortage by removing what the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), the state’s teachers’ union, described as a “barrier” to certification.

Previously, candidates seeking teaching certification were required to pass a Commissioner of Education-approved basic skills test, such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators test. This exam, used by over 40 states, assesses fundamental competencies in English, mathematics, and specific subjects.

The new law stipulates that the State Board of Education cannot mandate this test for candidates pursuing various teaching certifications, including certificates of eligibility, provisional certificates, and standard instructional certificates.

However, prospective teachers must still meet other requirements, such as holding a bachelor’s degree, maintaining a minimum GPA, and completing relevant coursework in their field of specialization.

“We need more teachers. This is the best way to get them,” argued Democratic state Senator Jim Beach when the bill was passed. While the Praxis Core test is no longer required, educators will still need to pass specialized tests in their respective subject areas to demonstrate proficiency.

New Jersey’s move reflects a broader national trend. Over the past few years, multiple states have eased certification requirements to tackle teacher shortages.

For instance, California implemented an emergency executive order in 2022, waiving traditional credential requirements to recruit parents as substitutes. That same year, Arizona enacted measures allowing individuals to begin teaching before completing their college degrees.

Supporters of the New Jersey law believe it will help attract more candidates to the teaching profession, but critics worry that lowering standards may compromise educational quality.

Criticism of New Jersey’s Decision to Eliminate the Basic Skills Test

The removal of the basic skills test requirement for New Jersey teachers has sparked significant criticism, with detractors questioning its potential impact on educational quality and student outcomes.

One major concern is that the policy could lower the standard of teaching.

Critics argue that basic reading, writing and math skills are fundamental competencies for educators, regardless of their specialization. “If teachers themselves are not proficient in these areas, how can we expect them to effectively teach students?” one education advocate stated.

Opponents also argue that the move prioritizes quantity over quality in addressing teacher shortages. While the need for more teachers is urgent, critics believe that lowering certification requirements risks flooding the profession with underprepared individuals.

“Shortages can’t be solved by compromising the integrity of the teaching profession,” noted a former superintendent. “We need innovative solutions, not lowered expectations.”

There is also concern about the potential long-term impact on students, particularly in underserved communities. Detractors fear that students may receive a subpar education if teachers lack essential skills. “Students in low-income areas already face educational disparities. This decision could widen that gap,” a parent advocate remarked.

Furthermore, critics worry that removing the basic skills test might deter highly qualified individuals from entering the profession. By de-emphasizing rigorous standards, some argue, the policy undermines the profession’s credibility.

While supporters of the law emphasize that teachers will still need to meet GPA and subject-specific requirements, critics contend that these measures alone are insufficient to ensure quality.

The elimination of the Praxis Core test, they argue, sends a message that foundational skills are no longer a priority in education.

Lastly, some see the move as a short-term fix for a deeper issue. Teacher shortages, they contend, are driven by systemic problems such as low pay, high workloads, and lack of professional support.

“Instead of addressing these root causes, the state is opting for a shortcut that may do more harm than good,” one teacher union representative argued.

While the new law may help fill classrooms with more educators, critics warn it could come at the cost of educational excellence.